“Clarks is an [almost] 190-year-old company with a phenomenal brand and history, and I have nothing but good things to say about it,” Salzano said in a phone interview with Footwear News. “I was so fortunate to work at a family company and have my dad right there.” (Joe Salzano is VP of sales at the firm.)

Salzano said he looks forward to continuing his work at Two Ten Footwear Foundation, where he serves as chairman of the board.

The executive did not comment on his next move, but he remains deeply passionate about the shoe business. “We’ve got such a special industry,” Salzano said.

For its part, Clarks lauded Salzano’s tenure at the brand, specifically citing his role in the development of a distribution center in Hanover, Pa. and other strategic growth initiatives in the U.S. market, as well as South America and Canada.

“On behalf of the Clarks leadership and shareholders, I would like to thank Jim for his hard work over the past 18 years,” Melissa Potter, CEO of Clarks Group, said in a statement. “Clarks has a bright future in the Americas and that is in part due to Jim’s contributions and the growth of the business so far.”

The brand has begun a search for a new president of the Americas. Starting Sept. 1, Ken Dobinson, chief commercial officer of the company, will assume interim responsibilities for the region.